Townsend nearing Tottenham return

Andros Townsend is edging closer to a Tottenham return as the winger came through an under-21 match without any reported problems on Tuesday.

Townsend has not featured for Tim Sherwood's side since he suffered a hamstring injury in the League Cup loss to West Ham on December 18 last year.

However, the England international started the club's under-21 game with Newcastle on Tuesday and impressed in his first half performance, finishing with a goal and an assist in the 4-1 win. Townsend was replaced at half-time during the match.

The 22-year-old could now be in the frame to return to first team action in Sunday's Premier League tie at Swansea.

Sherwood originally thought Townsend would be out of action for considerable time, but will be encouraged by the youngster's swift recovery.